Surgical Aspects of Abdominal Pain

Abstract

Abdominal pain remains a common complaint in children and accounts for a frequent number of surgical consultations. Rapid, accurate diagnosis of abdominal pain in children reduces the morbidity of common causes of pediatric abdominal pain. Clinical evaluation may help identify which children with abdominal pain should undergo immediate surgical consultation and which children with equivocal presentations should undergo further diagnostic evaluation The important clues provided by a thorough history and physical examination along with an understanding of the multiple sources of abdominal pain and the formulation of a limited differential diagnosis is crucial for the pediatric patient presenting with either acute, subacute, or chronic abdominal pain (Fig. 21.1). A number of conditions may cause abdominal pain and may lead to a specialist referral. This chapter deals with common sources of abdominal pain among pediatric patients, their etiology and management in primary/emergency care. Indications for referral will be highlighted.